Japan is known for being the testing ground for some truly ridiculous flavors of candy, chips and soda -- and the latest wacky product on the Japanese market is Pepsi White, a Christmas-themed, citrus-flavored soda.
Pepsi White was originally released in Japan in 2008 as a limited edition beverage. That edition of Pepsi White, however, tasted like yogurt. The current release will actually taste like citrus fruit, although Pepsi Japan hasn't revealed which fruit in particular the new Pepsi White will be inspired by. The Pepsi White packaging has a Christmas theme, adorned in snowflakes and snowmen as well as the ubiquitous Pepsi red, white and blue spherical logo.
Releasing limited edition beverages gives Pepsi a trial run for soda flavors that could eventually be popularized worldwide and become longer-running varieties.
White Citrus Sodas
This Japanese Pepsi White Beverage is Being Released for Christmas
Trend Themes
1. Limited Edition Beverages - Pepsi White is an example of a limited edition beverage, giving marketers a chance to test new flavors before deciding to release a commodity.
2. International Flavor Testing - International markets, like Japan, are ideal for release of international-themed products that target specific tastes in soft drinks.
3. Holiday-inspired Packaging - Holiday-inspired packaging adds an element of fun and festive to products, making them more marketable for seasonal promotions.
Industry Implications
1. Beverage Industry - Limited edition beverages, like Pepsi White, allow businesses to test new flavors and marketing campaigns to better engage customers and increase profits.
2. International Marketing - International markets, such as Japan, can serve as a laboratory for marketers to gauge customer reactions to new flavors and branding campaigns before a wider release.
3. Seasonal Promotions Industry - Holiday-themed packaging designs, like Pepsi White's, offer an opportunity for companies to create engaging seasonal products to entice customers.